Stevens Tip-up pocket model .22

[VeritasVincit]

Alright, I've been looking. Model 41, 43, diamond target model? Anyone know anything about these? I've got three different variations and I'll post all of them. It looks like there were quite a few different models based around a similar design. I would love to learn about the specifics and be able to differentiate between all of them.

The smallest with the spur trigger is serial number 1662.
The one with the brass butt cap is number 39202.
The one with the heavy patina is 50159.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Mike Irwin]

I have one exactly like the one in your second picture.

Unfortunately, I really don't know that much about them. Your best bet would probably to locate a copy of the Flayderman's guide for some basic information on when they were made and how much they're worth.

 

[Jim Watson]

I have Flayderman's book.
Your spur trigger Stevens looks like a No 43 Diamond, can't tell whether it is a first issue 1886-1896 or second issue 1896-1916.

The two with trigger guards are close to the No 35 but not identical. Sights and details of the butt don't match Flayderman's picture.

 

[VeritasVincit]

Thanks for the replies! That gives me something to plug into Google at least.

 

[James K]

Those guns are a bit of a nightmare for collectors, as there were different models and variations within the models, as well as options in sights and barrel length.

I think your # 1, Picture 2989, serial 39202 is a Stevens Offhand Target, No.35. They made about 50,000, 1907-1916

I think your # 2, Picture 3011, serial 1662 is a Stevens Diamond No. 43, First Issue; some 25,000 were made 1886-1896.

And I think your # 3, Picture 3005, serial 50159 is a later No. 35 with out the butt cap.

Jim

 

[VeritasVincit]

Wow, thank you Jim. I'm interested in how you learned all this. I'm an aspiring collector of all things, though for now I'm only well versed in some older Smiths. Thanks!

 

[James K]

I got most of it from Flaydermans, but also from a couple of other books. The only Stevens single shot I have is a Model 10 which, of course, is a totally different gun.

When I first got into collecting, an old timer and good friend (gone now, alas) gave me a good piece of advice - every time you buy a gun, buy a book. Not necessarily a book about that gun, but a decent quality gun book. (At that time, there weren't many; we are blessed today with a tremendous number of high quality books whose price reflects the quality.) Skip the umteenth regurgitation of old stories and nonsense put out by the gunzines, and get the best you can possibly afford that arose from original research.

Jim